Paris Agreement Great News for California’s Environment

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Local government leaders and clean energy businesses ready to act locally on landmark global accord

Environment California

Los Angeles, CA. — World leaders are voting today on a final agreement to limit global warming to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius, a benchmark scientists say is critical to avoid devastating impacts of global warming that could render the planet uninhabitable. The accord includes provisions to track, verify, and update individual nations’ pollution reduction strategies every five years. Michelle Kinman, clean energy advocate with Environment California, issued the following statement applauding the historic agreement, and highlighting what it means for California:

98 percent of Californians live in counties recently hit by weather disasters like drought and flooding. Too many of us already know that global warming is hitting close to home, and none of us wants to leave the next generation an even more dangerous and extreme climate. That’s why the Paris agreement is great news for California’s environment and health.

“California has already been in a leader in curbing pollution and propelling solar and wind power forward. What’s more, mayors, businesses, public health professionals and citizens from across the state stand behind the Clean Power Plan, the biggest step the U.S. has ever taken to act on climate, and now they stand ready to act locally as part of this landmark global agreement.

“The Paris agreement means less pollution and more clean, homegrown power in California. It lays the foundation for the 100 percent pollution-free energy future we need and the safer climate future generations deserve.”